October 19, 2010

Report from Taiji: October 19

It was a good day in Taiji this day. High winds and waves kept the dolphin slayers in the harbor. We just might have a several day run of reports like these while this wonderful weather holds in Taiji.

It is the Japanese government who allows the dolphin hunt, capture, and slaughter to occur in Taiji and elsewhere in Japan. National law allows for hunting permits to be issued locally. Prefecture level authorities issue the permits. It is the law that needs to be changed. If dolphin molesting is outlawed in Japan like it is in the rest of the modern and civilized world, then the so-called fishermen will have to find something else to do with their time.

Elora and I will be staying in Taiji until our visas expire on December 10. If we are able to raise the funds, Sea Shepherd will be in a position to keep a representative here until the season ends on March 31. We already have commitments from volunteer Cove Guardians to keep coverage well into February.

The dolphin hunting and slaughter season in Taiji runs until March 31, 2011. It picks up again on September 1, 2011. We are confident that Cove Guardians will answer the call and come join us here this year, but for those who cannot come this year; start making your plans for next year. This is working and if we continue our presence long enough, this insanity will end.

You can help. Spread the word, send donations to the Sea Shepherd Cove Guardian campaign, join in the Worldwide Anti-Whaling Day on November 5, avoid all travel to Japan except to become a Cove Guardian with us here in Taiji, make good consumer choices regarding whether or not to purchase Japanese products, and ensure that you do everything you can to keep the pressure on the Japanese authorities. It is unfortunate that the reputation of an entire nation is being tarnished by the evil and shameful deeds of a handful of men in Taiji. To join us (voluntarily, and completely at your own cost and risk) in Taiji, write to me at inform-us@seashepherd.org. I will get back to you, but please be patient. I cannot keep an eye on the Cove and answer email at the same time.

For the Oceans,

Scott WestSea Shepherd Conservation Society

Click here to learn more about the 5 November 2010 Worldwide Anti-Whaling Day.